The Ultimate Kid-Friendly Day Trip from Chicago: A Perfect Day in Kenosha, Wisconsin
Finding a day trip that captivates the kids, is easy to get to, and doesn’t empty your wallet can feel like searching for a hidden treasure. But what if we told you the perfect destination is hiding in plain sight, just a short trip north? Say goodbye to endless searching and hello to Kenosha, Wisconsin! This charming lakefront city is one of the best kid-friendly day trips from Chicago, offering a delightful mix of free museums, sweet treats, and vintage fun. It’s one of those amazing cities less than 2 hours away from Chicago that delivers a full day of family memories without the stress.
Quick Facts: Kenosha Day Trip at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Chicago | ~65 miles |
| Travel Time | 1.5 hours by car; 1.5-1.75 hours by train |
| Best For Ages | 3 – 12 |
| Estimated Family Cost | $50 (budget) – $200 (splurge) |
| Best Time to Visit | Summer & Fall 2025; Weekdays to avoid crowds |
How to Get to Kenosha from Chicago
One of the best parts about a Kenosha day trip is how simple it is to get there. Whether you prefer the flexibility of your own car or the adventure of a train ride, you’ll be there in under two hours, ready to explore.
Driving from Chicago
The drive is a straight shot north on I-94 W. In about 60-90 minutes, you’ll be pulling into town. Try to avoid peak rush hour traffic for the smoothest journey. Once you arrive, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the ample and affordable parking—much of it is free on side streets or in public lots.
Taking the Train from Chicago
For a car-free and kid-approved adventure, hop on the Metra Union Pacific North (UP-N) Line from Ogilvie Transportation Center. The 90-100 minute ride is a fun experience for little ones, and it conveniently drops you off right in the heart of downtown Kenosha, within walking distance of museums, restaurants, and the streetcar line.
| Mode | Travel Time | Cost (Round Trip) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Car | 1-1.5 hours | ~$15-25 (gas/tolls) | Flexible schedule, bring more gear | Potential for traffic, parking hunt on busy days |
| Train | 1.5-1.75 hours | ~$20/adult (kids often free on weekends) | Relaxing, fun for kids, drops you downtown | Fixed schedule |
Top 5 Kid-Friendly Attractions in Kenosha
Kenosha packs a punch with attractions that are not only fun but also incredibly affordable. Here are the top five can’t-miss spots for your family’s day out.
-
Get a Sugar Rush at the Jelly Belly Visitor Center
Prepare for a world of sweet fun! The Jelly Belly Visitor Center offers a free train tour, the “Jelly Belly Express,” that takes you through their warehouse while you learn about the candy-making process. The best part? Free samples at the end! Don’t forget to stop by the store to pick up a bag of “Belly Flops”—the perfectly imperfect, discounted jelly beans. This is a must-do, and the fact that the tour is free makes it even sweeter.
-
Uncover Fossils at the Dinosaur Discovery Museum
Got a dino-lover in the family? You’re in luck! This fantastic museum is the only one in the nation dedicated to exploring the link between meat-eating dinosaurs and modern birds. Kids will marvel at the impressive skeletal casts that fill the main hall. Head downstairs for hands-on activities perfect for younger children. Best of all, admission is completely free!
-
Ride a Vintage Electric Streetcar
Give those tired little legs a rest and see the city in style. Kenosha’s beautifully restored electric streetcars run on a scenic 2-mile loop through the historic downtown and along the shimmering Lake Michigan shore. Each car is a piece of history from a different city, like Philadelphia or Toronto. At just $1 for adults and $0.50 for kids, it’s an experience that delivers huge smiles for just a few quarters.
-
See a Giant Mammoth at the Kenosha Public Museum
Right on the lakefront, this museum’s star attraction is the incredible display of massive woolly mammoth skeletons that were unearthed right in Kenosha County. The sheer size of the mammoths is enough to wow visitors of all ages. The museum also features exhibits on local history and a detailed Native American village. It’s another amazing indoor option with free admission.
-
Play by the Lake at Simmons Island Park
When it’s time to burn off that sugar-fueled energy, head to Simmons Island Park. With a wide, sandy beach, a great playground, and the picturesque Kenosha North Pier Lighthouse, it’s the perfect spot for an afternoon break. Let the kids dig in the sand, climb the play structures, and watch the waves roll in. It’s a beautiful, free way to enjoy a sunny day on Lake Michigan.
Sample One-Day Kenosha Itinerary for Families
Feeling overwhelmed by all the options? Here’s a foolproof plan to help you visualize a perfect, fun-filled day in Kenosha.
Morning (9:30 AM – 12:00 PM)
Arrive in Kenosha and make your first stop the Jelly Belly Visitor Center. Going early is the key to beating the weekend crowds. Take the train tour, enjoy your free samples, and grab a bag of Belly Flops for the road.
Lunch (12:00 PM – 1:30 PM)
Head downtown for a classic lunch experience. For a meal you’ll be talking about for weeks, brave the line at the famous Franks Diner, a historic lunch-car diner known for its “Garbage Plate.” For a more spacious and equally delicious option, try The Coffee Pot for great diner fare.
Afternoon (1:30 PM – 4:00 PM)
It’s time for a museum crawl! The best part is they’re all close together. Start at the Dinosaur Discovery Museum to see the giant skeletons, then take a short walk over to the Kenosha Public Museum to marvel at the woolly mammoths.
Late Afternoon (4:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
Wind down your day with a relaxing ride on the Electric Streetcar loop. It’s the perfect way to see the last sights before a final treat. Hop off near Scoops Ice Cream for a cone, or take a final stroll along the pier at Simmons Island Park before you begin your journey home.
Where to Eat in Kenosha with Kids
From historic diners to classic pizza joints, Kenosha has plenty of family-friendly food options to refuel your crew.
Classic Diners ($$)
- Franks Diner: An unforgettable experience in a historic train car. Famous for its witty service and massive “Garbage Plates.” Be prepared for a line!
- The Coffee Pot: A more spacious diner with a classic feel, serving up delicious breakfast and lunch staples that will please everyone.
Pizza & Casual Fare ($$)
- Villa D’Carlo: A beloved local spot serving up old-school thin-crust pizza and other Italian favorites in a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere.
Sweet Treats ($)
- Scoops Ice Cream: A downtown institution! This local ice cream parlor is the perfect place to grab a cone or sundae on a warm day.
Planning Your Visit: What to Know Before You Go
A little planning goes a long way. Keep these details in mind for a smooth trip.
- Opening Hours: Many Kenosha museums and attractions are closed on Mondays. The Jelly Belly Center and museums typically operate from mid-morning to late afternoon (e.g., 9/10 am to 4/5 pm), but always check official websites for current 2025 hours before you leave home.
- Accessibility: The major museums and the Jelly Belly Visitor Center are ADA accessible. The vintage streetcar may have limitations, so it’s best to check with the operator directly.
- Parking: Downtown Kenosha offers plenty of street parking (both metered and free) and public lots. Most museums also have their own dedicated free parking lots.
Insider Tips for Your Kenosha Day Trip
- Check the Hours: We can’t say it enough! Many attractions are closed on Mondays. Double-check online before you go to avoid disappointment.
- Museum Campus: The Dinosaur, Civil War, and Public Museums are all clustered together downtown. You can easily park once and walk between them.
- Cash for the Trolley: The historic streetcar is a charmingly old-fashioned experience and may be cash-only. Bring a few small bills just in case.
- Saturday Market Magic: If you visit on a Saturday between May and October 2025, the Kenosha HarborMarket is a must-see. It’s a huge European-style market with food stalls, crafts, and live music.
- Cooler Crew: Planning to stock up on candy or chocolate at Jelly Belly on a hot summer day? Bring a small cooler bag to keep your sweet treasures from melting on the ride home.
Kenosha Day Trip Budget Breakdown (Per Family of 4)
Here’s a sample budget to show just how affordable a fantastic day in Kenosha can be.
| Expense | Budget-Friendly | Mid-Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation (Gas) | ~$20 | ~$20 |
| Lunch & Snacks | ~$40 (Packed Lunch) | ~$80 (Diner/Restaurant) |
| Attractions | ~$5 (Streetcar) | ~$25 (Streetcar + Civil War Museum tickets) |
| Souvenirs/Treats | ~$15 (Belly Flops) | ~$50 (Candy + Ice Cream for all) |
| TOTAL | ~$80 | ~$175 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are some kid friendly day trips from Chicago?
Kenosha, Wisconsin is one of the absolute best kid-friendly day trips from Chicago because of its unique combination of free museums, the famous Jelly Belly tour, and easy accessibility. Other fantastic options include the Indiana Dunes National Park for beach-loving families and Milwaukee, WI, for a bigger city feel with its excellent zoo and Discovery World science museum.
What cities are 2 hours away from Chicago?
You have a great selection of cities within a two-hour drive, perfect for a change of scenery. Our top recommendations include:
- Kenosha, WI
- Milwaukee, WI
- Lake Geneva, WI
- Starved Rock State Park (Oglesby, IL)
- New Buffalo, MI
Is Kenosha, Wisconsin, worth a day trip with kids?
Absolutely. With three free museums, a free candy factory tour, a charming vintage streetcar, and a beautiful lakefront park, Kenosha offers a full day of affordable, diverse, and engaging family fun. The fact that it’s less than 90 minutes from Chicago makes it an easy and rewarding choice for your next family adventure.
TLDR: Your Kenosha Cheat Sheet
Don’t have time to read it all? Here are the must-knows:
- Go for: Free museums (Dinos, Mammoths), the free Jelly Belly candy tour, and cheap vintage streetcar rides.
- Getting There: Easy 90-minute drive or a fun Metra train ride right into downtown.
- Eat at: Franks Diner for a unique experience or The Coffee Pot for a classic family meal. Get ice cream at Scoops.
- Top Tip: Most attractions are closed on Mondays. Go on a weekday to avoid crowds.
- Cost: Super affordable! You can have a fantastic day for under $100 for a family of four.
